US-Iran deal: Trump, Vance and Ghalibaf electronically sign agreement; Hormuz to be ‘completely open’ Friday

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The US-Iran deal provides for the return of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) experts to Iran to destroy its stockpile of enriched uranium, US Vice President JD Vance stated.

“Yes, absolutely,” he said in an interview with NBC News. “In fact, one of the core parts of the agreement is that the IAEA [International Atomic Energy Agency] and the United States are going to help Iran destroy the highly enriched [uranium] stockpile,” he emphasized.

The vice president added that this is “spelled out very clearly” in the Iran-US memorandum of understanding, Russia’s TASS news agency reported.

According to Vance, there are still “some technical details to work out, not related to the text of the memorandum of understanding itself, but the implementation.”

The document is scheduled to be signed in Geneva on June 19.

Confusion continued to swirl over the scope and timing of a reported US–Iran agreement, even as President Donald Trump said the deal to end the war had already been signed and that details would be released “pretty soon.”

Trump said the agreement was digitally signed on Sunday (June 14) and claimed it includes provisions to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by Friday (June 19), when he said the accord would be formally inked on paper. He did not immediately provide documentation or detailed terms of the agreement.

The Strait of Hormuz has been a central flashpoint during weeks of conflict involving Iran, Israel, and allied forces in the region.

Iranian and intermediary sources have previously described the deal as a “framework” intended to halt military operations and open a 60-day negotiating period on broader security and nuclear issues, though implementation details remain unclear.

Analysts caution that while political statements suggest rapid de-escalation, key questions remain over verification mechanisms, enforcement on the ground, and whether all parties to the wider regional conflict will abide by any ceasefire arrangements.

Global oil benchmarks tumbled across the board on Monday evening and into Tuesday morning (June 16), as markets are treating the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz as positive news.

Crude oil rates prices are falling from their crisis highs as traders anticipate a gradual recovery in Gulf exports, with WTI crude sliding to $80.75 (-4.9%) and Brent to $83.38 (-4.5%).

Murban crude was down 7% to $76.81 (down $6.21) as of 6.59am Tokyo time on Tuesday.

The broad sell-off comes after reports of a US–Iran de-escalation or preliminary peace framework, including expectations of reduced military confrontation and a possible easing of pressure on maritime flows.

Global shippers are insisting on independent confirmation that the Strait of Hormuz are free of naval mines and other hazards before they fully resume normal operations, amid lingering risks following months of maritime conflict in the Middle East.

Industry groups say that even after tentative political de-escalation efforts, operators will not return at scale without verified mine clearance, safe navigation corridors, and sustained security guarantees, Reuters reported. Maritime security experts, meanwhile, warn that underwater mines and unexploded ordnance remain among the most serious threats to commercial shipping, with clearance operations potentially taking weeks in heavily contested waters.

More ships are being allowed through the Strait of Hormuz following the announcement of a US-Iran peace deal. News agencies reported that the situation has improved significantly compared with the near-total shutdown seen earlier in the conflict. While commercial shipping has not yet returned to normal operations, a number of vessels have begun transiting the strait again. Shipping companies and tanker operators are evaluating routes and security conditions before sending larger numbers of vessels through. The agreement reportedly calls for reopening the strait and restoring maritime traffic. Implementation is still underway.

A US Air Force B-52 Stratofortress strategic bomber crashed shortly after takeoff from Edwards Air Force Base in California’s Mojave Desert, triggering a major emergency response and prompting the closure of one of America’s most important military aviation facilities.

According to the Air Force, the bomber went down at approximately 11:20 am local time shortly after departing from Edwards Air Force Base, about 100 miles (160 km) north of Los Angeles. Emergency crews rushed to the scene as thick black smoke rose from the desert crash site. Aerial footage showed a large scorched area roughly the size of a football field.

President Donald Trump is facing growing criticism from some of the Republican Party’s most prominent foreign-policy hawks, who argue that his emerging agreement with Iran amounts to a major “retreat” after months of military confrontation and economic pressure.

The backlash comes as the Trump administration pursues a preliminary accord aimed at ending hostilities, reopening the Strait of Hormuz and laying the groundwork for broader negotiations with Tehran. While the White House has portrayed the agreement as a diplomatic breakthrough, critics within Trump’s own party fear it falls short of the administration’s original objectives and could leave Iran strategically stronger.

Several Republican lawmakers have publicly questioned whether the proposed arrangement secures meaningful concessions from Iran on key issues such as its nuclear programme, missile capabilities and regional influence. Senator Lindsey Graham warned that a deal allowing Iran to retain significant leverage in the Gulf would represent a major shift in the regional balance of power, while Senator Ted Cruz described reports of concessions to Tehran as “deeply concerning”.

The Dow finished at a fresh record Monday, rallying with other major US indices after the announcement of a peace accord between Washington and Tehran sent oil prices sharply lower.

The blue-chip index piled on 0.9 percent to end at 51,671.83.

The broad-based S&P 500 gained 1.7 percent to 7,554.80, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index jumped 3.1 percent to 26,883.94.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said there are instances where he and US President Donald Trump do not “see eye to eye,” but stressed that he will always act in Israel’s national interest, according to the BBC.

Speaking at a press conference, Netanyahu said that when necessary, he would firmly insist on protecting Israel’s priorities.

“When necessary, I will insist on Israel’s interests,” he said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that the country’s forces would remain in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria “for as long as necessary,” hours after a deal was announced between Iran and the US to end the Middle East war.

“We established deep security zones around the State of Israel. We did this in Gaza, in Lebanon, and in Syria,” Netanyahu said in a televised press conference. “And I want to make it clear: we will remain in these security zones for as long as necessary to protect our country.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday that the joint US-Israeli military campaign against Iran had spared his country from what he described as the Islamic republic’s threat of “nuclear annihilation”.

“The most important thing is that we saved the State of Israel from the threat of nuclear annihilation,” Netanyahu said, in what were his first comments after Washington and Tehran agreed to a deal to end the Middle East war.

“And what would that mean? It would mean that millions of Israeli citizens – you who are hearing me now – all of you would have been in terrible danger of mass death… And we have pushed away from us, for years, this danger of the annihilation of Israel’s population,” Netanyahu said in a televised press conference.

US strategic oil stockpiles sank last week to their lowest level since 1983 as the US-Iran war slowed crude deliveries, government data showed Monday.

The US Strategic Petroleum Reserve fell to 340.3 million barrels, down 8.9 million from the prior week, according to weekly figures released by the US Department of Energy. That’s the lowest level since July 1983.

Lebanese militant group Hezbollah said on Monday it had repelled an Israeli force that was trying to “advance” in southern Lebanon, despite the US-Iran agreement to end the Middle East war on all fronts including in Lebanon.

Fighters from the group “using rockets and drones” blocked an Israeli force consisting of an excavator and two Merkava tanks that was “advancing” in the vicinity of Kfar Tebnit town near the southern city of Nabatieh, Hezbollah said in a statement.

A wide international coalition, including the UAE, EU and dozens of countries such as the US, UK, France, Saudi Arabia and Japan, has issued a joint statement condemning a drone attack near the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in the UAE.

The May 17, 2026 strike, attributed to armed factions in Iraq, targeted electrical infrastructure outside the plant’s inner perimeter and was described as a “flagrant violation of international law”.

The signatories warned of serious safety, environmental and humanitarian risks, urged an immediate halt to attacks on the UAE, and reaffirmed support for the peaceful operation and security of nuclear facilities under IAEA oversight. Read more

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking at a press conference with Israeli reporters, said the country’s challenges are not yet over despite recent developments.

Netanyahu said Israel had succeeded in avoiding the “danger of destruction”, but stressed that the situation remains unresolved.

“Our struggle has not yet ended,” he said.

A senior US official has said the emerging ceasefire agreement does not currently include Lebanon, according to the BBC.

The official said that while Lebanon is not formally part of the deal, direct discussions between Israel and Lebanon are under way as part of wider efforts to reduce regional tensions.

The official added that if Iran is unable to restrain Hezbollah and the group targets Israeli positions or towns, Israel would retain the right to respond.

“If Iran is not able to control Hezbollah and if they attack Israeli positions or Israeli towns, Israel will have the right to defend themselves and respond,” the official said.

The official also noted that Iran, its allies, the US and its partners are seeking an end to hostilities, with hopes that a final peace agreement could eventually include “a lot of these proxy groups.”

US President Donald Trump has said the text of the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran will be released publicly, likely after the formal signing ceremony scheduled for Friday, CNN reports.

Speaking during a bilateral meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, Trump said he expected the agreement to be published shortly.

“I think pretty soon. I would say — I mean, I want it to be released because it’s a very powerful document. This is a very powerful document and I want it to be released. So probably pretty soon. I would say after sometime after Friday,” he added.

Pakistan’s foreign minister earlier said a formal signing ceremony is set to take place in Geneva, Switzerland. Trump is currently in Europe for the G7 summit.

Trump has said Iran will not receive sanctions relief unless it fully complies with its obligations under a potential agreement.

Speaking alongside French President Emmanuel Macron in France, Trump said the issue was “really a behavioural thing”, stressing that benefits would only follow if Iran “does what they’re supposed to do”.

“If they do what they’re supposed to do, that starts taking effect,” he said.

Trump made the remarks during joint appearances with Macron, where broader discussions on the Iran deal and regional security were also taking place.

The Strait of Hormuz will be “completely open” from Friday after a deal between Iran and the US to end the Middle East war that limited shipping in the critical bottleneck, Trump said.

Speaking at the start of bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron ahead of a G7 summit in France, Trump added, “I don’t think we are going to need much help” on keeping the strait open, after London and Paris proposed a joint naval mission.

Trump said that the Strait was “already partially opened”, although there was “hunting” going on to ensure it was de-mined.

He hailed the deal made with the Islamic republic, saying “the main thing is Iran will not have a nuclear weapon.”

After the killing of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of the US-Israeli war on February 28, Trump declared Washington was getting on “well” with the new leadership in Tehran.

“The first set (of leaders) is gone, the second set is gone and we found the third set to be very smart… We ended up making a deal.”

He did not specify which leaders he was referring to.

A senior US official has said the United States knows the location of all naval mines placed in the Strait of Hormuz, as efforts intensify to restore normal shipping through the key oil route, CNN reports.

Iran is believed to have deployed naval mines across the strait, with experts warning that detecting and removing them remains a major challenge for ensuring safe maritime passage.

A senior US administration official said shipping traffic could return to normal “pretty quickly, definitely within 30 days” once commitments are made to remove the mines.

The official said Washington is prepared to assist in clearing the strait, adding that it has detailed knowledge of mine locations and could help facilitate their removal.

“We actually could help them with the disposition,” the official said, noting that it would open additional routes for oil tankers.

Trump has indicated that he is unlikely to attend the formal signing ceremony for the Iran agreement scheduled for Friday in Switzerland, CNN reports.

Speaking alongside French President Emmanuel Macron at the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, Trump said Vice President JD Vance would travel to Geneva for the event.

“He was originally going to do it. I’ll probably be gone by then,” Trump said.

A senior US official earlier said that both Trump and Vance had already signed the agreement electronically, ahead of the planned in-person ceremony.

French President Emmanuel Macron has said that France and the United Kingdom will lead an international maritime and naval mission aimed at coordinating efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking alongside US President Donald Trump, Macron said the initiative is expected to involve around 20 countries, underscoring what he described as a broad international commitment to restoring safe navigation through the key waterway.

Macron said the operation will focus on maritime security and ensuring the smooth flow of commercial shipping through the strategic chokepoint, which is vital for global energy supplies.

He reiterated France’s continued commitment to the mission, adding that coordination with international partners will be central to the effort.

Macron’s remarks come after France and the UK previously declined requests from Trump to deploy military assets earlier in the conflict, highlighting differing approaches among allies on direct military involvement.

US President Donald Trump has said Iran will only receive sanctions relief if it fulfils its obligations under a potential agreement.

Speaking alongside French President Emmanuel Macron in France, Trump described the process as “behavioural”, stressing that benefits would depend on Iran meeting its commitments.

“It’s really a behavioural thing. If they do what they’re supposed to do, that starts taking effect,” Trump said.

He added that sanctions relief would only follow verified compliance, saying Iran must meet agreed conditions before any easing measures are implemented.

US President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf electronically signed a deal to end the Middle East war, a senior US administration official said Monday.

“The president wanted to sign it personally because he wanted to show his… dedication to bring this through to a successful resolution,” the official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told reporters in a call.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has reported an incident involving a container ship approximately 14 nautical miles south of Yemen’s coast.

The agency said a small skiff approached the vessel, with crew on board opening fire and attempting to board the ship.

UKMTO said it is monitoring the situation and has urged vessels operating in the area to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

US Vice President JD Vance has said Iran “could have access” to a proposed $300 billion reconstruction fund, reportedly backed by Gulf nations, if it meets certain obligations under any future agreement.

Speaking to CBS, Vance said access would depend on Iran “honouring its end of the obligation”, stressing that the plan remains conditional and tied to compliance.

He also warned that Iranian hardliners could “overemphasise the benefits” while downplaying the concessions required to qualify for such support.

Vance denied that the reported $24 billion in frozen Iranian funds is included in the current draft agreement, which has not yet been published.

He added that Washington is open to discussions on unfreezing assets, but said a broader economic sanctions relief package would depend on long-term commitments over Iran’s nuclear programme.

Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remained virtually at a standstill, tracking platforms indicated, despite Trump’s claim that crossings were resuming under his deal to end the war with Iran.

At 1400 GMT on Monday, tracking firm Kpler had detected only one commodities carrier crossing the strait during the day with its transponder switched on.

The Maltese-flagged Disha left the Gulf carrying a cargo of 60,000 tonnes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) loaded in Qatar and was heading towards India, Kpler said.

A second vessel, the bulk carrier Kaiser, also appeared to have exited the strait around midday, according to its AIS signal traceable on the MarineTraffic platform.

“Crossings still remaining limited while there are more than 500 commercial vessels that have given an AIS signal in the Persian Gulf” in the past 24 hours, Nikos Pothitakis, Kpler’s media relations manager, said on X, referring to the ships stuck west of the strait due to the conflict.

Over the previous week, an average of 6.4 commodities vessels transited the strait each day.

Before the war, around 120 daily transits were recorded, according to maritime news site Lloyd’s List.

The International Monetary Fund chief on Monday welcomed the ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, but warned it would take time for energy and other supply disruptions to dissipate.

“As we have said before, much depends on the duration and intensity of the energy supply shock,” Kristalina Georgieva wrote in a post on the Fund’s website.

“The sooner it is resolved, the better – especially as supply will take time to recover given the significant infrastructure damage – and Sunday’s ceasefire announcement is welcome.”

Georgieva also announced that the Fund would be releasing an update to its World Economic Outlook (WEO) – which includes growth and inflation projections – on July 8.

He reiterated that there remained “a clear risk to global growth” from the conflict, and warned that there were “significant disparities” on its impacts.

“It is the countries that combine heavy reliance on energy imports with limited policy space that are especially hard-hit,” she said, adding that the strain was visible in Africa.

She cited fuel shortages in Ethiopia, Malawi and Zambia, with high fuel prices threatening consumers in Lesotho, Rwanda and Tanzania.

Earlier this month, the Fund announced it was providing increased or faster access to funds to Ethiopia, The Gambia and Burkina Faso, and said it was in “accelerated” talks with Malawi for a new financial assistance program.

Emerging market economies in Asia have also been hard hit, with retail prices of gasoline increasing by 40 percent since the war began, she said.

Georgieva said the Fund was prepared to offer financial support to member countries, but that most governments had so far asked for policy guidance rather than cash bailouts.

She warned that oil-exporting countries in the Gulf had been badly hit by the war, and face “steep downward revisions to growth this year, with five out of eight countries seeing outright contractions.”

The Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior has announced a new Law on Maritime Facilities and Floating Units aimed at strengthening maritime safety and regulating related activities.

The law sets out a comprehensive legal framework covering licensing and operational procedures for maritime facilities and floating units. It also defines technical requirements, safety standards, and maritime security protocols.

Officials said the legislation is intended to safeguard lives and property, while also supporting the protection of the marine environment.

The ministry stressed that compliance with the law and its implementing regulations is a key pillar in ensuring safe and responsible use of maritime facilities and floating units.

US President Donald Trump arrived in Geneva to attend the G7 meeting of world powers in neighbouring France, with allies hoping his outline deal with Iran translates into a swift reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Air Force One carrying Trump touched down at the airport in the Swiss city, from where Trump was to transfer to the nearby French spa resort of Evian which is hosting the event, an AFP correspondent said.

US President Donald Trump has said vessels are beginning to move through the Strait of Hormuz, with many reportedly carrying oil.

In a post on Truth Social, he said ships are travelling along what he described as a “Southern Highway”, calling it “safe, secure and pristine”.

He added that other routes are also being used, without providing further details.

Vice President JD Vance said Monday that the US expects Iran will not charge tolls on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, but that the issue would be discussed as part of the new peace deal.

Asked on CNBC if there was an understanding with Iran that the crucial waterway would reopen toll-free for just an initial period of 60 days or longer term, Vance said: “Our expectation is that the strait is going to be opened in a toll-free way for the long term, and that’s the sort of thing that we’re going to figure out in these technical negotiations.”

Hezbollah thanked its backer Iran for insisting that Lebanon, where Israel and the militants have been at war, be included in the deal to end the Middle East conflict.

“Hezbollah expresses its profound gratitude” to Iran’s leaders, forces and people “for their steadfast support of Lebanon, its people and its resistance, and for their insistence that Lebanon be included in any understanding leading to the cessation of war”, the group said in a statement.

Hezbollah warned that the group “will not accept any aggression that violates its country’s sovereignty or spills the blood of its people”, vowing it would “remain committed to Lebanon’s legitimate and unwavering right to defend its land, people and sovereignty until a full (Israeli) withdrawal is achieved and the prisoners are returned”.

Iran’s foreign ministry said day it would seek ratification from the UN Security Council after it negotiates a final agreement covering its nuclear programme with the United States.

“The final agreement is expected to be endorsed by a United Nations Security Council resolution after a period of 60 days,” said foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei in a weekly press briefing, adding that Tehran “will learn from past experience”.

Iran’s foreign ministry on Monday said the United States must ensure that Israel commits to stopping the war in Lebanon under a framework deal to end the Middle East war.

“The United States must honour its commitments. It must ensure that the Zionist regime also respects its own regarding Lebanon,” said foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei in a press briefing, adding that Tehran “neither trusts Israel nor the United States”.

Iran’s foreign ministry on Monday said the country would charge maritime service fees on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, rather than imposing tolls, under a framework deal with the US.

The move marks a new regulatory step affecting vessels passing through the strategic waterway, which handles a significant share of the world’s crude exports.

Iran’s foreign ministry on Monday said the United States had committed to releasing Iran’s frozen funds abroad and compensating it for damages during the war under a framework deal.

“The release of the frozen Iranian assets as well as the reparations for damages are two essential points. The American side has committed to taking measures in both areas,” said foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei during a press briefing.

Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said long-standing distrust with the US stems from the 1953 coup, which he described as a Western-backed operation that overthrew Iran’s elected government.

Referring to historical ties, Baghaei said past experiences dating back to that period continue to shape Iran’s position.

“Since that moment, trust has gone between America and Iran, and it is deep rooted,” he said, adding that Washington still has a long way to go to rebuild confidence.

Iran’s stocks of enriched uranium need to be neutralised and placed under the supervision of the UN atomic agency, French President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday.

“We will ensure that the enriched uranium capabilities that remain are properly neutralised,” Macron said after US President Donald Trump announced a deal with Iran. The sensitive stocks should be “either taken out, or diluted” and then looked after by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Macron said.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has rejected claims that Washington is facing a shortage of munitions stockpiles, calling it a “manufactured story”.

His remarks follow concerns that the Iran conflict could be straining US weapons reserves, after a US Navy official linked tensions to a pause in arms sales to Taiwan.

Speaking to CBS News, Hegseth said stockpiles remain “strong and getting stronger”, adding: “We’re building more than ever before.”

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday vowed ahead of the G7 summit in France that “we will do everything” to ensure Iran imposes no tolls on the key Strait of Hormuz shipping channel.

Speaking to TF1 TV hours after a deal was agreed between Iran and the United States to end the Middle East war, Macron said a joint France-UK mission to ensure the Strait opens was prepared to deploy “very quickly”, with the French flagship aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle ready to be in the zone “on a timescale of two to three days”.

Oil-rich Iraq on Monday welcomed the planned reopening of the Strait of Hormuz under a deal announced by the United States and Iran to end the Middle East war.

Iraq’s foreign ministry expressed its “satisfaction with the announcement on the imminent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to normal navigation, given its crucial importance in ensuring the flow of oil and gas to global markets”.

Iraq relies on the vital waterway to export most of its crude oil, which accounts for nearly 90 percent of its revenues.

Bahrain has sentenced 12 defendants to 10 years in prison after convicting them in a series of cases involving support for Iranian terrorist attacks against the kingdom, according to the Public Prosecution.

The rulings were issued on Monday by the High Criminal Court in 11 separate cases that included charges of endorsing and promoting the attacks, obtaining and disseminating restricted sensitive information, photographing prohibited sites and spreading false information and rumours through social media platforms.

Sagiv Steinberg, CEO of the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs (JCFA) spoke about the recent announcement of peace agreement between Tehran and Washington – calling it a temporary arrangement ahead of the upcoming midterm elections in the US.

Steinberg told ANI, “As far as I can see it is not a peace deal, it is another 60 days of ceasefire.”

He highlighted that with the agreement between the two parties yet to be published, both sides may have differences in claims and one needs to wait till Friday to when the deal is inked.

Referring to the information in the public domain, he said that none of Washington’s objectives was met.

“If we take what the Iranians are saying now and the feeling which is coming from Washington about this agreement – is that nothing was achieved in the goals of the war that the US started. The Iranian people didn’t get the freedom, didn’t get their help. We remember, President Trump promised them help is on the way. It got even worse. The Iranians can now, if the agreement is true, can now rebuild and rebuild the proxies. The Hezbollah, the Houthis, they can rebuild their gain in Iraq and in Syria. And that’s a huge problem,” he said.

He highlighted how no substantive solution was arrived regarding the nuclear issue.

“There wasn’t any solution for the nuclear issue. Nothing was dealt as we can see with this deal. And as far as we can tell, it’s a ceasefire for 60 days in order to allow President Trump to get closer to the elections.”

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Monday expressed hope that a deal between Washington and Tehran to end the Middle East war would put a “definitive end” to the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

In a statement issued by his office, Aoun praised the memorandum’s affirmation that “Lebanon’s security and safety are an integral part of any effort to consolidate stability in the region”.

The Lebanese people “look forward to these understandings transforming into practical steps that put a definitive end to the cycle of violence and establish a phase of stability, security, recovery and reconstruction,” the statement added.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth denied that the American military was facing a munitions stockpile shortage, saying on Sunday that it was a “manufactured story” peddled by the media.

Hegseth’s comments came hours before the United States and Iran said they reached a deal to end the Middle East war on all fronts, including Lebanon, and to reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz.

Concerns over the Middle East war straining US weapons stockpiles deepened last month after Acting US Navy Secretary Hung Cao cited the conflict as a reason for pausing arms sales to Taiwan.

Hegseth dismissed the idea when asked on CBS News’ Face the Nation if there was a crisis in munitions stockpiles.

“That is a manufactured story that the media wants to peddle, and ultimately our stockpiles are great and they’re only getting stronger,” he said.

“We’re building more than ever before. The Biden administration gave away hundreds of billions to Ukraine, and so President Trump had to refill, and he has, and we have, in real time.”

Iran’s Fars news agency said on Monday, quoting what it said was an informed source, that Tehran added a clause on imposing maritime service fees to the framework deal with the United States shortly before its announcement.

“In the final moments of the negotiations, the text of the memorandum of understanding was amended to clearly and explicitly emphasise the issue of the Iranian-Omani sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz,” said Fars, citing the unidentified source.

“The use of the term ‘maritime services’ means that the United States has accepted that fees will be paid to Iran,” it added.

At least 40 people have been executed in Iran on “national security grounds” since the start of the year, including 18 protesters, the United Nations said Monday.

“The authorities have intensified their brutal crackdown, arresting thousands and imposing even more severe restrictions on civic space. They have executed at least 40 people on national security grounds so far this year, including 18 protesters,” said UN rights chief Volker Turk.

Lebanon has not been informed of details of an agreement between the United States and Iran to end the Middle East war on all fronts including in Lebanon, an official source told AFP on Monday.

Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency (NNA) reported intermittent artillery shelling in the country’s south on Monday but no airstrikes – a lower level of violence compared to previous days.

“Lebanon was not informed of the terms of the agreement or the time of the ceasefire,” the source said on condition of anonymity.

Former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has raised serious concerns regarding the durability of the newly finalised peace deal between the United States and Iran, warning that the agreement carries an inherent risk of collapse due to the volatile nature of the Tehran administration.

In an exclusive interview with ANI, Morrison weighed in on the sustainability of the diplomatic breakthrough and the high stakes involved.

When asked what happens if the US-Iran ceasefire deal collapses, Morrison stated, “I think it’s obviously a risk that this could collapse over the term of this arrangement based on history and based on the fact that you can never trust the Iranians to honour any promise they ever give.”

The former leader further characterised the ideological framework governing Tehran.

“They’re an apocalyptic regime that is not driven by the same rational considerations that freedom-loving open market economies are. The United States has done well to bring them to this point, but holding them at that point, I think, will continue to be a challenge. But I’m optimistic that the President will be able to achieve that,” Morrison added during his exclusive conversation with ANI.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called the US-Iran deal a “historic step towards peace” Monday following weeks of his government mediating between the warring sides.

“Today, the world has seen a historic step towards peace. After the darkness of war, the sun of peace has risen,” Sharif told Pakistani lawmakers after earlier announcing the deal would be signed in Geneva on June 19.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday welcomed the understanding reached between the US and Iran on ending the conflict in West Asia and expressed India’s hope that the implementation of this understanding will help restore peace and stability in the region.

“I welcome the understanding reached between the United States and Iran on ending the conflict in West Asia, which has caused serious economic disruption across the world and led to loss of life in many countries”, PM Modi said in a post on X.

“India hopes that the implementation of this understanding will help restore peace and stability in the region and ensure the freedom of navigation and commerce. We look forward to deliberations on the remaining issues reaching a sustainable final agreement,” he added.

Egypt welcomed Monday an agreement announced by the United States and Iran to end the Middle East war, saying it could be a “turning point” for peace in the region.

“Egypt welcomes the agreement reached between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran, considering it a highly significant development that will restore security and stability at both the regional and international levels,” Cairo’s foreign ministry said.

Egypt, it said, “hopes that this agreement will constitute a major turning point toward strengthening mutual trust, laying new foundations for cooperation, creating a supportive environment for peace and advancing diplomatic efforts aimed at addressing remaining regional issues”.

Saudi Arabia on Monday welcomed a US-Iran deal to end hostilities and kickstart peace talks, cautioning that any lasting arrangement should take into account the security interests of the region.

The kingdom welcomed “the agreement reached between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran to end military operations and initiate detailed negotiations within 60 days to reach a permanent agreement,” the ministry of foreign affairs said in a statement on social media.

It also insisted that a lasting peace deal would be one “that takes into consideration the security interests of regional states, sticking to the principle of non-interference in the interior affairs of other countries”.

China welcomed on Monday an agreement by the United States and Iran to end the Middle East war, commending Pakistan for its mediation efforts.

The US and Iran said they reached a deal to end the war on all fronts including Lebanon, and reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz, though they offered little indication on the thorny question of Tehran’s nuclear programme.

“China welcomes the agreement… and expresses appreciation for the mediation efforts made by Pakistan,” foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian told a news briefing, adding that Beijing hopes the deal would be signed as scheduled.

China “hopes that safe and free passage through the strait will be restored as soon as possible”, Lin added.

The United States and Iran are to hold indirect meetings in Doha this week ahead of the formal signing of a deal aimed at ending the Middle East war, a diplomat told AFP on Monday.

“Separate preparatory meetings with each side will now take place in Doha this week, ahead of the official signing in Switzerland and the start of the technical talks,” the diplomat said, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive arrangements.

The source added that Qatari mediators had departed Tehran after “17 hours of intensive negotiations”, which began on Sunday and culminated in an agreement being reached.

Israel’s defence minister said Monday that Israeli forces would remain in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza indefinitely, hours after the United States and Iran agreed to end the Middle East war, including in Lebanon.

“Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I are pursuing a clear policy under which the IDF will remain in the security zones in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza for an unlimited period of time, in order to protect the border and Israeli communities from there against jihadist elements,” Israel Katz said in a statement that did not make any reference to the US-Iran deal.

“The area will be cleared of local residents, and all terrorist infrastructure, both above and below ground -including the houses in the frontline villages that served as terrorist outposts – will be destroyed.

“Holding territory and maintaining security zones are among the IDF’s greatest achievements… therefore we oppose an IDF withdrawal from Lebanon, despite all the existing pressures and those that will come,” Katz said, adding that Netanyahu had informed President Donald Trump about this.

“We will not compromise on Israel’s paramount security interest and the protection of our citizens, and we will not withdraw from the security zones,” he said.

“If Iran attacks Israel over the events in Lebanon, we will strike it with full force and clearly demonstrate the disparity in our capabilities.”

The EU’s top officials welcomed a deal between the United States and Iran to end the Middle East war, saying Europe was ready to contribute to “a lasting peace”.

“I look forward to an end to this costly war and to the full restoration of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz,” Antonio Costa, the president of the European Council representing member states, wrote on X.

“Weapons must now fall silent,” Costa urged, saying the “European Union is ready to contribute to advancing a comprehensive strategy for lasting peace across the Middle East.”

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen stressed the “priority now is its swift and full implementation” – calling on “all parties to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and implement a genuine ceasefire.”

“There can be no peace in the Middle East while Lebanon is in flames,” she warned, adding that Hormuz reopening was “essential for regional stability and the global economy” and that a final deal “should end Iran’s nuclear and ballistic programmes and its destabilising activities in the region.”

Heading into talks with the bloc’s foreign ministers, EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas said ministers would discuss Monday “how the EU can be closely involved in the next phase.”

The Lebanese Ministry of Public Health’s Emergency Operations Centre announced that the death toll from Israeli attacks on Lebanon since March 2 had risen to 3,783, with 11,699 others injured as of Sunday.

Israel’s far-right national security minister, Itamar Ben Gvir denounced the deal between the United States and Iran to end the Middle East war, including in Lebanon, insisting his country was not bound by it.

“Trump’s agreement does not bind us… we are not party to this agreement. It does not safeguard our security,” Ben Gvir said on his Telegram channel, in what was the first reaction from an Israeli official to the deal.

“We must not settle for anything less than the dismantling of Hezbollah. We must not withdraw from a single inch of territory that our soldiers have captured and cleared of terrorist infrastructure,” he said.

European Union chief Antonio Costa welcomed Monday a deal between the US and Iran to end the Middle East war, adding that the bloc was ready to contribute to a strategy for “lasting peace”.

“I look forward to an end to this costly war and to the full restoration of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz,” Costa, the European Council President, wrote on X.

The Ambassador of India to Oman, Prashant Pise, interacted with the 20 Indian crew members of MT Jalveer in Muscat ahead of their repatriation to India and wished them a safe journey home.

In a post on X, the Embassy of India in Muscat stated, “The crew were safely evacuated ashore, in coordination with Omani authorities, following the incident involving the vessel on 11 June 2026.”

The interaction provided an opportunity for the top diplomat to personally review the well-being of the rescued sailors following the maritime security incident. Reaffirming its unwavering commitment to the safety of citizens overseas, the mission further highlighted on the social media platform that the “Embassy of India remains committed to extending prompt assistance and support to Indian nationals in distress and ensuring their welfare and safe return home.”

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomed the peace deal between the US and Iran and issued a call for both sides to show continued restraint.

In a joint statement with Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong, Albanese said that the Australian government is “pleased” that the agreement includes steps towards re-opening the Strait of Hormuz and restoring freedom of navigation, reports Xinhua news agency.

“Australia has long called for de-escalation and an end to the conflict, including in Lebanon. As we have said, the longer this war goes on, the greater the impact will be,” they said.

“Continued restraint and constructive engagement will be essential to prevent further escalation and secure a lasting agreement.”

Global crude oil prices declined by nearly 5 per cent on Monday after the United States and Iran reached an agreement and announced the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, easing concerns over disruptions to global energy supplies.

The international oil benchmark Brent crude fell as much as 4.90 per cent to $83.05 per barrel in early trade, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude plunged 5.74 per cent to around $80 per barrel.

Iran’s frozen assets worth $12 billion continue to be a primary bone of contention even as the world celebrates a peace deal between the US and Tehran, which is scheduled to be signed on Friday in Geneva.

According to Iran’s Mehr news agency, which cited a 14-point memorandum of understanding, the US has agreed to release the frozen assets before the start of negotiations, which focus on key issues including Tehran’s nuclear programme.

The document published by Mehr stipulates “the release of 24 billion dollars in frozen Iranian assets during the 60-day negotiation period” that begins after the memorandum of understanding is concluded. Furthermore, the text, which has not been officially confirmed, specifies that “half of this amount must be made available to Iran before the start of the negotiations.”

However, the US was quick to turn the claim on its head, with an official telling Axios that no frozen funds will be released without Iran implementing its commitments. The senior US official stated, “This is a pay-for-performance deal.”

The leaders of France, the United Kingdom, Germany and Italy have welcomed the announcement of a memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran, hailing it as a major diplomatic breakthrough and expressing readiness to lift relevant sanctions if Iran takes clear, verifiable steps to address concerns over its nuclear programme.

In a joint statement, the four European leaders congratulated the US, the Iranian government and all parties involved in facilitating the agreement. They also acknowledged the role played by mediators in advancing the diplomatic process.

“We warmly welcome the announcement of the memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran,” the leaders said. “We congratulate the United States, the Iranian government and all those involved, including Pakistan, Qatar and all other mediators, on this diplomatic breakthrough.”

Asian markets rose on Monday (June 15) following the announcement of a US-Iran deal late on Sunday: Japan’s Nikkei 225 index jumped more than 4% on Monday, as global markets rallied following reports that the US and Iran have reached an agreement aimed at ending the conflict in the Middle East.

The sharp gains in Tokyo reflected broad investor optimism that a de-escalation between Washington and Tehran could ease geopolitical tensions, stabilise energy supplies, and reduce the risk of wider regional disruption that has weighed on global equities in recent weeks.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has welcomed the announced agreement between the United States and Iran, urging all parties to avoid actions that could undermine what he described as a rare opportunity for lasting peace in the region.

Erdogan, in an X post, said he hoped the development “will pave the way for the establishment of a lasting environment of peace and security in our region,” calling the reported breakthrough something “the entire world has long needed.”

He also warned against escalation in the critical period ahead of the agreement’s signing, urging restraint in rhetoric and actions that could inflame tensions or allow for “possible sabotage” of the diplomatic process.

The Turkish leader added that Ankara is prepared to continue supporting efforts aimed at stabilising the region, reflecting Turkey’s longstanding role as a regional mediator amid competing interests involving the United States, Iran, and neighbouring conflict zones.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has welcomed what has been announced as a US–Iran peace deal, describing it as a “critical step” toward ending months of conflict and easing tensions across the Middle East.

Guterres congratulated both Washington and Tehran, saying the agreement reportedly provides for an “immediate and permanent ceasefire,” the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and a framework for further negotiations between the two sides.

“I warmly congratulate the US & Iran for having reached a peace deal that provides for an immediate & permanent ceasefire, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, as well as a framework for further negotiations,” he wrote.

“This represents a critical step towards the peaceful settlement of the conflict,” he added.

Qatar on Monday welcomed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the US and Iran, describing the agreement as a positive step toward reducing regional tensions after months of escalating conflict across the Middle East.

Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said Qatar “welcomes the agreement reached between the US and Iran” and praised regional and international actors — including Pakistan — for helping create conditions for the understanding.

In a post on X, he expressed hope that upcoming negotiations would proceed “in a positive and constructive spirit,” saying they could help consolidate early progress and build momentum toward broader stability efforts.

“We affirm that the State of Qatar will always remain a steadfast supporter of these efforts and of all that promotes security and stability at the regional and international levels through dialogue and peaceful means,” he said.

Iran’s embassy in Turkiye on Sunday welcomed what it described as a “new era” in the Middle East, offering an early diplomatic signal of Tehran’s response to reports of a tentative US–Iran agreement announced by President Donald Trump and Pakistani officials.

“Welcome to the Middle East of a new era,” the embassy posted on social media, framing the development as a potential turning point in regional tensions that have escalated sharply in recent months.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has publicly congratulated President Donald Trump on what the White House is calling a milestone agreement with Iran, noting the announcement’s timing coincides with the president’s birthday.

Rubio’s remarks add to the administration’s celebratory tone following Trump’s claim that a breakthrough deal had been reached aimed at de-escalating months of regional conflict involving Iran, Israel, and allied armed groups across the Middle East.

US Vice President JD Vance said Sunday he planned to attend the signing of an Iran peace deal in Switzerland in a few days, but that President Donald Trump might go.

“I certainly plan to be there, but it’s possible the president himself could be there,” Vance told Fox News when asked if he’d be at the ceremony, which mediator Pakistan said would take place in Geneva on June 19.

Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has said a deal with the United States has been finalised, with the official signing scheduled to take place in Switzerland on Friday, according to state media reports.

Speaking on state television during a phone interview, Gharibabadi said an “immediate and permanent end” to hostilities would be announced, including a halt to military operations across multiple fronts such as Lebanon.

He also claimed that the US naval blockade against Iran would be lifted the same night.

The reported statements have not yet been independently verified, and no formal confirmation has been issued by US authorities.

President Donald Trump has confirmed that the United States and Iran have reached an agreement, marking a potential breakthrough in efforts to end months of escalating conflict in the Middle East.

The announcement, if fully implemented, would represent a major turning point in a crisis that has drawn in Israel, Hezbollah, and other regional actors, with fighting spreading across Lebanon, Gaza, and key maritime routes.

Details of the deal have not yet been fully released, but it is expected to include a framework aimed at halting hostilities and opening a path toward broader negotiations on security arrangements, sanctions relief, and Iran’s nuclear programme.

The confirmation comes after weeks of contradictory signals between Washington and Tehran, with both sides previously signalling progress while disputing key terms of any final agreement. Regional tensions remain high, and it is not yet clear how allied groups on the ground will respond to the reported breakthrough.

Pakistan’s prime minister says the United States and Iran have agreed to an “immediate and permanent” halt to military operations across all fronts, including Lebanon, in a major claimed breakthrough aimed at de-escalating regional conflict.

The announcement, if confirmed by both Iran and the US, would mark a significant shift in efforts to contain fighting that has spread across multiple theatres in the Middle East, where tensions involving Israel, Hezbollah, and Iran-aligned groups have continued to escalate.

However, details of the agreement have not yet been independently verified, and neither Washington nor Tehran has issued a formal joint statement confirming the terms of the reported truce.